Namibia targets to generate 10GW of renewable energy in 20 years

Namibia is targeting to generate 10 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy in the next 20 years, 30 times its existing generation capacity. 

This was revealed by President Hage Geingob during his speech at the Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge at the 28th edition of the Conference Of Parties (COP28) in Dubai.

“By harnessing the power of renewable energy, Namibia aims to propel a new era of economic growth that is both environmentally conscious and socially inclusive. Our ambition is clear: to position Namibia as a hub for renewable energy innovation, driving green industrialization that creates jobs, fosters economic development, and ensures energy access for all,” he said.

Geingob said the feat will be achieved by harnessing the power of various renewable sources, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy, to meet the targeted goal.

 “We are currently developing nine different green hydrogen projects that are looking to use renewable energy to produce clean molecules that will decarbonize various sectors of our economies, including transport and agriculture, and create whole new industries such as those emanating from the chemicals and basic materials sectors,” he said.

According to Geingob, Namibia’s energy generation ambitions will allow the country not only to meet its own renewable energy needs but also diversify its exports.

 “Namibia has generous deposits of lithium and light and heavy rare earth elements, critical raw minerals that are needed to engender the energy transition. Today we are exploring ways to use these minerals to manufacture battery precursors within our borders, adding value to our natural endowments before exporting them, and we are aiming to do so by deploying additional renewable energy,” he said.

The President, however, said billions in investment will be required for Namibia to meet its plans.

 “Significant new infrastructure such as new ports, roads, railways, transmission lines, and pipelines for water and hydrogen will have to be built. Together we will need to move billions of dollars to achieve this feat,” he said.

“Namibia stands ready to collaborate, share knowledge, and forge partnerships that will accelerate the adoption of renewable energy technologies across the African continent.”

Namibia currently has a generation capacity of approximately 486.5MW out of a demand of an estimated 600MW, with independent power producers contributing an estimated 70MW to the grid.